Flagstaff County proposes $500 one-time employee bonus linked to performance evaluations

Coconino County officials are proposing a significant change to employee compensation during the FY 26 budget hearings, with a focus on a one-time $500 bonus for non-law enforcement staff who complete their performance evaluations. This initiative aims to incentivize participation in annual reviews, which have been inconsistently conducted in the past.

During the meeting, County Manager's Office representatives outlined the financial implications of this proposal, indicating that the total cost would be approximately $500,000, with $325,000 sourced from the general fund. The bonus is designed to be a flat amount, not recurring, and is intended to provide employees with additional compensation while also spacing out financial rewards throughout the year.

The discussion highlighted the importance of performance evaluations, with several supervisors emphasizing that participation should not require additional financial incentives. Supervisor Begay noted that evaluations should be a standard responsibility for supervisors, while others expressed concerns about the effectiveness of the current compensation structure in attracting and retaining talent.

In addition to the one-time bonus, the county is considering a midyear review to potentially implement a $1 per hour raise for all employees, contingent on financial conditions. This would be a recurring expense, contrasting with the one-time bonus, and aims to address the rising cost of living and competitive salary benchmarks set by neighboring municipalities.

The meeting underscored the need for transparency in salary structures, with some supervisors advocating for clearer communication regarding total compensation packages to enhance recruitment efforts. As the county navigates budgetary constraints, these discussions will shape the future of employee compensation and retention strategies in Coconino County.